The test does use radiation, so doctors only request it when there is a clear medical benefit. Patients should not undergo repeated CT scans. But, using the test to diagnose a specific injury is safe. Do not avoid a CT scan if your doctor believes it will lead to better diagnosis and treatment.
A non-invasive DEXA Scan is recommended for post-menopausal women and patients who take medicines that impact the bones. The scan looks for two conditions: Osteopenia (lower than normal bone density) and Osteoporosis (weak bones that are susceptible to fracture). Ask your doctor if you should have a DEXA Scan if you think you are at risk for bone conditions.
Regional One Health’s East Campus Imaging Center offers convenient MRI appointments so patients can get a diagnosis and start treatment quickly. Imaging Center Manager Susan Edwards addressed common questions about what to expect if your doctor asks for an MRI.
Dr. Cramer’s advice: breast ultrasound is a companion, not an alternative, to mammography. A diagnostic radiologist should read the results of the two tests simultaneously.
Image detected by the East Campus Imaging Center's new mammogram technology A routine mammogram screening for women at or below average risk for breast cancer is one of those tests that’s easy to put in the category of “I’ll get to it one day.” But the convenient location of and simple scheduling [...]